Michigan Football QB Devin Gardner is Tough as Nails

By David Cuff @DaveCuff on October 11, 2014

QB Devin Gardner is as tough as they come. He suffered what looked to be a severe ankle injury in the third quarter of the University of Michigan‘s game against Penn State tonight, but it could not keep him down. Third-string quarterback Russell Bellomy came in for a couple series and was not effective at all. The only two passes he attempted were both almost intercepted, one that would have been returned for a touchdown.

At that point, Gardner made his return. He limped onto field and came out throwing. On his first drive back in the game, Gardner completed a huge 24-yard pass to Dennis Norfleet that set Michigan up for what would become the game-winning field goal. It wasn’t quite Willis Reed in Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals, but still impressive nonetheless. He was just as impressive on the sidelines encouraging the defense and getting them fired up for what turned out to be a spectacular performance on that side of the ball.

Gardner’s numbers weren’t anything spectacular, but he got the job done. He was 16-of-24 for 192 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He put it all on the line and was impressive in doing so. Michigan had over 113,000 fans in attendance and over 200 alumni who came out to support the team. Gardner did not let them down. His gutsy performance along with the play of the defense led Michigan to their 18-13 victory.

You can question the decision-making of Gardner all you want. You can get on him for all of the turnovers and the missed opportunities he leaves in the passing game. You cannot, however, question the leadership or toughness of the fifth-year senior. He personifies what Michigan football is all about.

David Cuff is a University of Michigan Football writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @DaveCuff, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.